The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP), a transformative initiative aimed at empowering 20 million young Nigerians with job opportunities, entrepreneurial support, and access to funding.
The program, which officially kicked off in April 2025, has already recorded over two million registrations, signaling massive interest from Nigerian youths eager to change their economic realities. Designed to uplift millions from poverty, YEIDEP focuses on equipping participants with the resources they need to either launch small businesses or secure meaningful employment across various sectors, especially in agriculture, food processing, and other high-yield ventures.
In a significant public-private partnership, YEIDEP is backed by ten leading Nigerian banks, including Fidelity Bank and Access Bank, which are providing critical financial services, training, and support to ensure the program’s success. This collaboration is expected to boost access to capital and streamline processes for youth-led enterprises, especially in underserved communities.
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Previously known as NIYEEDEP, the rebranded initiative now carries a name that aligns more closely with its target audience—young Nigerians—highlighting both economic empowerment and national security as dual priorities. By providing viable alternatives to crime and social unrest, YEIDEP also aims to reduce radicalization and foster a more stable society.
According to officials, the program is not just about disbursing funds, but about transforming mindsets and creating sustainable opportunities for growth. With an ambitious target of reaching 20 million beneficiaries, YEIDEP represents one of the most extensive youth-focused initiatives in Nigeria’s recent history.
The Federal Government is urging eligible youths across the country to take advantage of this opportunity, as the drive toward economic inclusion, self-reliance, and national development gains momentum.